It can be difficult for many students to adapt to the increasing pressures of academics coupled with athletic opportunity. Senior Shavon Pennie has not only adapted, but has also grown stronger from his effort.

The pitcher walks up to the mound feeling the weight of the ball in his hand. He takes a deep breath focusing in on his target. He tightens his grip on the ball, winds up, and releases. The catcher frames the pitch perfectly as the crowd waits to hear the umpire call strike three. Another win recorded and one step closer to the championship. It’s more than just a game, it is a part of who they are and a career path they look to explore.

Checking the wind speed and direction, choosing the correct club, stepping up to the tee and swinging, hoping to make it to the green – those are just some of the steps junior Clayton Hudson goes through each time he steps on a golf course. For the past three years he has participated and excelled on the high school golf team.

Most people who find themselves splashing in the water do it to pass the time in the hot Texas summer, but some take this pastime to a competitive level. Senior Haley Clark is an example of this. Not only is she a competitive swimmer on campus, but she is also ranked as one of the top five swimmers in the state and one of the top one hundred swimmers in the nation.